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Wales Online
2 days ago
- Wales Online
Stunning coastal walk in North Wales named amongst world's best for 'no-sweat scenery'
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A relatively short coastal walk in North Wales has been adjudged one of the world's most scenic for those who don't want aching limbs at the end of it. A bonus for walking slackers is the pub that lies en route - it has a global reputation for combining leisurely pit stops with stunning views. The walk, on the Llŷn Peninsula, Gwynedd, is just 3.6 miles (5.8km) and involves climbing no more than 54 metres along the way. Porthdinllaen Circular, along a sandy beach and dramatic cliffs, was considered to be among the world's top 10 'easiest walks to the world's best views'. Its rating, following an analysis by AllClear Travel Insurance, leaves the walk rubbing shoulders with iconic spots like the Giant's Causeway and Switzerland's Panorama Trail. The idea of 'easy walks' to scenic locations was conceived for those who struggle to access the world's 'most iconic views'. Medical conditions, limited mobility, time constraints or travelling with children can all make challenging hikes a no-go. The people behind the study imagine the concept will also appeal to idlers who want 'big views with minimal effort'. Or as they call it, 'no-sweat scenery'. The circular walk gives unspoilt views of Porthdinllaen Bay, a charming pub on the beach and, on clear days, views stretching all the way to Eryri's majestic peaks. The pub, Tŷ Coch Inn, was once named one of the world's best beach bars. There is one jarring note: the route highlighted, devised by an online hiking specialist, includes a section to a campsite that's actually private land. Alternative footpaths are nearby, perhaps offering even more scenic landscapes, but these will add distance to the trek. The shortest alternative may involve an extra 10-20 minutes to the 70-minute walk, so for most people it's probably not a deal-breaker. Whichever way you go, from the B4417, the destination is Nefyn Golf Course and the Llŷn Coastal Path. Following the latter takes you up one side of the Nefyn headland – a finger of land curving out from the bay – and back down the other side. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now (Image: Jeff Buck/Wiki) One side offers cliff drama, the other stunning views across the bay towards Yr Eifl mountains. The latter passes the RNLI Porthdinllaen Lifeboat Station and its small but wonderful sandy beach. From here, you can follow the Llŷn Coastal Path down below, or stay atop the headland for better views. The high point was once the site of an Iron Age hill forts, whose ditches and ramparts can still be made out on the golfing fairways. Once on the beach, Tŷ Coch Inn awaits. Named by the Sunday Times one of the UK's top 10 'best proper' pubs earlier this year, it's the centrepiece of the tiny hamlet of Porthdinllaen, a former fishing community that once vied with Holyhead to become the main harbour for Irish trade. Since 1994 it's been looked after by the National Trust. Even in winter the Tŷ Coch Inn can be busy; on warm summer days it positively bustles. From here, the Porthdinllaen Circular continues along the beach to Morfa Nefyn, then back up to the B4417 via Lon Bridin and Lon Las. Visitors have two main options for parking – the National Trust car park off Lon Golff, and a set-aside parking area further up the hill at the golf club. Both charge a fee. Letitia Smith, of AllClear, said: 'For millions of people, reaching some of the world's most beautiful viewpoints isn't always easy. Our research highlights just how many incredible landscapes can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and all abilities, particularly those living with medical conditions.' Topping the list was Artist Point in the Yellowstone National Park, USA. The scenery is pretty good – the viewpoint looks out over the Grand Canyon and its Lower Falls. But the 'walk' barely merits the description – it's just a 200-yard stroll from a car park. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox According to the study, the world's most difficult viewpoint to reach was Indonesia's Mount Rinjani, an active volcano with an impressive turquoise crater lake. Getting there requires a steep and strenuous hike but the views are considered amongst the most rewarding in south east Asia. The Top 10 most scenic walks requiring the least effort 'Difficulty score' in brackets. Artist Point, USA (11.9) Cadillac Summit Loop, USA (14.7) Milford Foreshore Walk, New Zealand (17.7) Cape Flattery Trail, USA (17.8) Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail, Canada (18.5) Blue Trail, Path of Love: Riomaggiore-Manarola, Italy (21.3) Moro Rock, USA (21.9) Grand Canyon South Rim (22.3) Bastei-Basteribrücke Bridge, Germany (22.6) Porthdinllaen Circular, Wales (22.8); Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland (22.8); Bryce Point Trail, USA (22.8) Find family activities near you
North Wales Live
2 days ago
- North Wales Live
Stunning coastal walk in North Wales named amongst world's best for 'no-sweat scenery'
A relatively short coastal walk in North Wales has been adjudged one of the world's most scenic for those who don't want aching limbs at the end of it. A bonus for walking slackers is the pub that lies en route - it has a global reputation for combining leisurely pit stops with stunning views. The walk, on the Llŷn Peninsula, Gwynedd, is just 3.6 miles (5.8km) and involves climbing no more than 54 metres along the way. Porthdinllaen Circular, along a sandy beach and dramatic cliffs, was considered to be among the world's top 10 'easiest walks to the world's best views'. Its rating, following an analysis by AllClear Travel Insurance, leaves the walk rubbing shoulders with iconic spots like the Giant's Causeway and Switzerland's Panorama Trail. The idea of 'easy walks' to scenic locations was conceived for those who struggle to access the world's 'most iconic views'. Medical conditions, limited mobility, time constraints or travelling with children can all make challenging hikes a no-go. The people behind the study imagine the concept will also appeal to idlers who want 'big views with minimal effort'. Or as they call it, 'no-sweat scenery'. The circular walk gives unspoilt views of Porthdinllaen Bay, a charming pub on the beach and, on clear days, views stretching all the way to Eryri's majestic peaks. The pub, Tŷ Coch Inn, was once named one of the world's best beach bars. There is one jarring note: the route highlighted, devised by an online hiking specialist, includes a section to a campsite that's actually private land. Alternative footpaths are nearby, perhaps offering even more scenic landscapes, but these will add distance to the trek. The shortest alternative may involve an extra 10-20 minutes to the 70-minute walk, so for most people it's probably not a deal-breaker. Whichever way you go, from the B4417, the destination is Nefyn Golf Course and the Llŷn Coastal Path. Following the latter takes you up one side of the Nefyn headland – a finger of land curving out from the bay – and back down the other side. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now One side offers cliff drama, the other stunning views across the bay towards Yr Eifl mountains. The latter passes the RNLI Porthdinllaen Lifeboat Station and its small but wonderful sandy beach. From here, you can follow the Llŷn Coastal Path down below, or stay atop the headland for better views. The high point was once the site of an Iron Age hill forts, whose ditches and ramparts can still be made out on the golfing fairways. Once on the beach, Tŷ Coch Inn awaits. Named by the Sunday Times one of the UK's top 10 'best proper' pubs earlier this year, it's the centrepiece of the tiny hamlet of Porthdinllaen, a former fishing community that once vied with Holyhead to become the main harbour for Irish trade. Since 1994 it's been looked after by the National Trust. Even in winter the Tŷ Coch Inn can be busy; on warm summer days it positively bustles. From here, the Porthdinllaen Circular continues along the beach to Morfa Nefyn, then back up to the B4417 via Lon Bridin and Lon Las. Visitors have two main options for parking – the National Trust car park off Lon Golff, and a set-aside parking area further up the hill at the golf club. Both charge a fee. Letitia Smith, of AllClear, said: 'For millions of people, reaching some of the world's most beautiful viewpoints isn't always easy. Our research highlights just how many incredible landscapes can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and all abilities, particularly those living with medical conditions.' Topping the list was Artist Point in the Yellowstone National Park, USA. The scenery is pretty good – the viewpoint looks out over the Grand Canyon and its Lower Falls. But the 'walk' barely merits the description – it's just a 200-yard stroll from a car park. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox According to the study, the world's most difficult viewpoint to reach was Indonesia's Mount Rinjani, an active volcano with an impressive turquoise crater lake. Getting there requires a steep and strenuous hike but the views are considered amongst the most rewarding in south east Asia. The Top 10 m ost scenic walks requiring the least effort 'Difficulty score' in brackets. Artist Point, USA (11.9) Cadillac Summit Loop, USA (14.7) Milford Foreshore Walk, New Zealand (17.7) Cape Flattery Trail, USA (17.8) Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail, Canada (18.5) Blue Trail, Path of Love: Riomaggiore-Manarola, Italy (21.3) Moro Rock, USA (21.9) Grand Canyon South Rim (22.3) Bastei-Basteribrücke Bridge, Germany (22.6) Porthdinllaen Circular, Wales (22.8); Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland (22.8); Bryce Point Trail, USA (22.8) Find family activities near you
Daily Record
7 days ago
- General
- Daily Record
'Easiest' walking routes with world's most stunning views named - with 1 in Scotland
A new global study has revealed the world's easiest walking routes to the world's most stunning views, with four UK trails making it onto the list Hiking getaways have seen a surge in popularity, particularly for domestic trips. As a result, a recent worldwide study conducted by AllClear Travel Insurance pinpointed the most straightforward strolls leading to the globe's most spectacular vistas, with four UK paths making the cut. Researchers scrutinised over 100 picturesque trails globally, ranking them according to difficulty based on distance, elevation, and average temperature. America's Artist Point in Yellowstone National Park topped the list. Trailing closely behind were the USA's Cadillac Summit Loop in second and New Zealand's Milford Sound Foreshore Walk in third. Securing joint tenth position were the UK's Porthdinllaen Circular in Wales and Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway Blue Trail. The Old Man of Storr route in the Scottish Highlands, one of Scotland's most emblematic locations, secured the 11th spot on the list. This trek leads you to the Old Man of Storr, a rock formation that came into existence millions of years ago, during the era when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Local folklore suggests that the rocks are the thumb of a giant now resting beneath the earth, while some believe the visage of an old man is etched into the stone, reports the Express. Taking to TripAdvisor one hiker who enjoyed this route, wrote: "Breathtaking scenery. Lovely walk up. Yes it's steep, but take your time and enjoy it! "Had a couple of loops around the car park before we found a space but let's be honest, it's incredible to even have a car park and toilet facilities at a Scottish place of interest so we were more than happen to wait. Anyone who expects more on a Scottish Island needs to hot tail it back to whatever city they come from. Enjoy it for what it is." As reported by AllTrails, the Welsh Porthdinllaen Circular can be completed in just over an hour, offering breathtaking coastal views and possible seal sightings. An enthusiastic walker shared: "Stunning little coastal walk. "There was a secluded beach just before the trail tells you to exit the golf course. I wasn't missing out on those! The way down is steep but oh so worth it!" Similarly, visitors on AllTrails have showered the Giant's Causeway Blue Trail with glowing reviews, noting its jaw-dropping views and picturesque landscapes. One satisfied hiker wrote: "A must see in Northern Ireland. Great hike, surreal views. Make sure to bring water." The final UK entry on the list was the Chee Dale Stepping Stones Circular, a picturesque trail skirting the edge of the Peak District. The world's 15 easiest scenic walks: Artist Point, USA Cadillac Summit Loop, USA Milford Foreshore Walk, New Zealand Cape Flattery Trail, USA Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail Canada Blue Trail, Path of Love: Riomaggiore - Manarola, Italy Moro Rock, USA Grand Canyon South Rim, USA Bastei - Basteribrücke Bridge, Germany Porthdinllaen Circular, Wales, Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail, Northern Ireland, and Bryce Point Trail, USA Old Man of Storr, Scotland The Panorama Trail: Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg, Switzerland
Wales Online
7 days ago
- General
- Wales Online
World's easiest walks with the most stunning views revealed - with one Welsh trail making the list
World's easiest walks with the most stunning views revealed - with one Welsh trail making the list A new global study has revealed the world's easiest walks to the most stunning views, with four UK trails making the list including Porthdinllaen Circular World's easiest walks to the most stunning views revealed - with one Welsh trail making the list (Image: Getty Images ) Ramblers have been increasingly opting for walking holidays, especially for domestic retreats. In light of this trend, a recent global study by AllClear Travel Insurance has disclosed the world's most accessible treks to breathtaking vistas, with four UK routes featuring in the rankings. The survey evaluated over 100 picturesque walkways across the globe, measuring their level of challenge based on factors like distance, elevation gain, and median temperature. Artist Point in Yellowstone National Park, USA, claimed the top spot for ease combined with stunning views. Notably, two UK paths were among the favourites, with the Porthdinllaen Circular in Wales and Giant's Causeway Blue Trail in Northern Ireland tied at tenth position. The Porthdinllaen Circular is one of the UK's most stunning, and easy, hikes (Image: Getty Images ) As stated by AllTrails, the Porthdinllaen Circular should take just over an hour to complete, offering sublime coastal scenes and potential seal encounters. A hiker who relished this route commented: "Stunning little coastal walk." Their review continued, underscoring a hidden gem: "There was a secluded beach just before the trail tells you to exit the golf course. I wasn't missing out on those! The way down is steep but oh so worth it," reports the Express. Article continues below Echoing the commendations, online reviews for the Giant's Causeway Blue Trail praise its magnificent panoramas and enchanting landscapes. One enthusiastic rambler advised: "A must see in Northern Ireland. Great hike, surreal views. Make sure to bring water." The Old Man of Storr route in the Scottish Highlands, one of Scotland's most iconic locations, secured the 11th spot on the list. One easy walking route at Giant's Causeway offers stunning views (Image: Getty Images ) This trek leads you to the Old Man of Storr, a rock formation that dates back millions of years, to the era when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Local lore suggests that the rocks are remnants of a giant's thumb, now buried underground, while some believe the rock bears the visage of an old man. Rounding off the UK entries on the list is the Chee Dale Stepping Stones Circular, a picturesque trail on the fringes of the Peak District. Article continues below The world's 15 easiest scenic walks:
Daily Record
03-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Scotland named top spot for scenic easy walks with stunning views and little effort
Scotland was the only UK nation with four walks in the global top 25, offering stunning views with minimal effort. Scotland has been celebrated as one of the best destinations in the world for breathtaking yet accessible walks, with four of its trails named among the top 25 easiest scenic routes globally. A new international study by AllClear Travel Insurance ranked over 100 iconic walks worldwide to identify the most rewarding trails that require minimal effort. Factors such as walking distance, elevation gain and average temperature were considered to calculate a 'difficulty score' for each route. Topping the list was Artist Point in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA, with a score of just 11.9 out of 100. Other top-ranking trails included the Cadillac Summit Loop in the USA and the Milford Sound Foreshore Walk in New Zealand. Scotland stood out as the only part of the UK with multiple entries in the global top 25. The four trails that made the cut were: Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye (13th) Arthur's Seat and St Anthony's Chapel, Edinburgh (19th) Ben A'an, Trossachs (joint 20th) Stac Pollaidh Circular, Wester Ross (25th) These popular Scottish routes joined others from Canada, Switzerland and New Zealand in offering 'maximum scenic reward with minimal effort', perfect for walkers of all ages and abilities. Letitia Smith, Head of Communications at AllClear, said: 'One of the most exciting parts of going on holiday is that first glimpse of a breathtaking view, whether it's from the plane window, your hotel room, or at the end of a trail. These are often the exciting moments that really give you that feeling of being on holiday and discovering somewhere new. 'But for millions of people, reaching some of the world's most beautiful viewpoints isn't always easy. This research highlights just how many incredible landscapes can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and all abilities, particularly those living with medical conditions, and we hope it inspires others on their travels.' Among the standout Scottish trails is the Old Man of Storr on Skye's Trotternish Ridge, one of the island's most famous and busiest attractions. Known in Gaelic as Bodach an Stòr , this 55-metre basalt pinnacle is the last remnant of a volcanic plug believed to be over 2.8 billion years old. The 3.8-kilometre trail to the rock formation takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to complete and begins and ends at the same car park. Meanwhile in Edinburgh, Arthur's Seat offers a surprisingly wild escape in the middle of the capital. According to AllTrails, the 4-kilometre out-and-back route is considered moderately challenging and takes around 1 hour 47 minutes to complete. Rising to 251 metres, this extinct volcano offers sweeping views over the city and is a favourite among hikers, runners and walkers alike. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. Further north in the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Ben A'an provides a perfect introduction to hillwalking. Though relatively short, the trail rewards walkers with panoramic views over Loch Katrine and the surrounding hills, making it ideal for families and first-time climbers. Last but not least is the Stac Pollaidh Circular in Wester Ross. This rugged 4-kilometre loop around the dramatic Stac Pollaidh mountain is considered a challenging hike, but it remains a popular choice for those seeking stunning views of Assynt, the Summer Isles and even the Isle of Skye. The summit, at 2,011 feet, is a coveted target for experienced scramblers, though the circular trail itself allows less experienced walkers to enjoy the area's spectacular scenery.
